The Doogee X97 and Tecno Spark Go 2023 represent the ultra-budget end of the smartphone spectrum. Both devices target first-time smartphone buyers or those needing a reliable secondary device. This comparison dissects their similarities and subtle differences to determine which offers the best value for the money, focusing on real-world usability rather than raw specifications.
🏆 Quick Verdict
For the average user seeking a basic, functional smartphone, the Tecno Spark Go 2023 edges out the Doogee X97. While both share the same Mediatek Helio A22 chipset, the inclusion of 10W wired charging in the Tecno provides a convenience factor that the Doogee lacks, making it a slightly more practical daily driver.
| Network |
|---|
| 2G bands | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 | GSM 850 / 900 / 1800 / 1900 |
| 3G bands | HSDPA 800 / 850 / 900 / 1700(AWS) / 1900 / 2100 | HSDPA 900 / 2100 |
| 4G bands | 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 7, 8, 12, 13, 17, 18, 19, 20, 25, 26, 34, 38, 39, 40, 41, 66 | LTE |
| Speed | HSPA, LTE | HSPA, LTE |
| Technology | GSM / HSPA / LTE | GSM / HSPA / LTE |
| Launch |
|---|
| Announced | 2022, August | 2023, January 19 |
| Status | Available. Released 2022, August | Available. Released 2023, January 24 |
| Body |
|---|
| Dimensions | 162 x 76.9 x 9.7 mm (6.38 x 3.03 x 0.38 in) | 163.9 x 75.5 x 8.9 mm (6.45 x 2.97 x 0.35 in) |
| SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM | Nano-SIM + Nano-SIM |
| Weight | - | - |
| Display |
|---|
| Resolution | 720 x 1440 pixels, 18:9 ratio (~268 ppi density) | 720 x 1600 pixels, 20:9 ratio (~267 ppi density) |
| Size | 6.0 inches, 92.9 cm2 (~74.6% screen-to-body ratio) | 6.6 inches, 104.4 cm2 (~84.4% screen-to-body ratio) |
| Type | IPS LCD | IPS LCD |
| Platform |
|---|
| CPU | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 | Quad-core 2.0 GHz Cortex-A53 |
| Chipset | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) | Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22 (12 nm) |
| GPU | PowerVR GE8320 | PowerVR GE8320 |
| OS | Android 12 | Android 12, HIOS 12 |
| Memory |
|---|
| Card slot | microSDXC (dedicated slot) | microSDXC (dedicated slot) |
| Internal | 16GB 3GB RAM | 32GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 3GB RAM, 64GB 4GB RAM |
| | - | eMMC 5.1 |
| Main Camera |
|---|
| Dual | 8 MP, f/1.8, (wide)
Auxiliary lens | 13 MP, f/1.9, (wide), AF
Auxiliary lens |
| Features | Triple-LED flash | Dual-LED flash, panorama, HDR |
| Single | - | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | 1080p@30fps |
| Selfie camera |
|---|
| Single | 5 MP, f/2.2, (wide) | 5 MP |
| Video | 720p | Yes |
| Sound |
|---|
| 3.5mm jack | - | Yes |
| 35mm jack | Yes | Yes |
| Loudspeaker | Yes | Yes |
| Comms |
|---|
| Bluetooth | 5.0, A2DP, LE | 5.0, A2DP, LE |
| NFC | No | Unspecified |
| Positioning | GPS, GLONASS, BDS, GALILEO | GPS |
| Radio | FM radio | FM radio |
| USB | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG | USB Type-C 2.0, OTG |
| WLAN | Wi-Fi 802.11 a/b/g/n/ac, dual-band | Wi-Fi 802.11 b/g/n |
| Features |
|---|
| Sensors | Accelerometer, proximity, compass | Fingerprint (rear-mounted), accelerometer, proximity |
| Battery |
|---|
| Charging | - | 10W wired |
| Type | 4200 mAh | 5000 mAh |
| Misc |
|---|
| Colors | Black, Blue, Green | Endless Black, Nebula Purple, Uyuni Blue, Skin Orange |
| Models | - | BF7n |
| Price | About 100 EUR | About 90 EUR |
Doogee X97
- Potentially lower price point.
- Reliable Mediatek Helio A22 processor for basic tasks.
- Simple and straightforward user experience.
- Likely slower charging speeds.
- Limited camera capabilities.
- Basic display quality.
Tecno Spark Go 2023
- 10W wired charging for faster top-ups.
- Reliable Mediatek Helio A22 processor.
- User-friendly software experience (typical of Tecno).
- Still limited by the Helio A22 chipset.
- Basic camera performance.
- Display quality likely similar to Doogee X97.
Display Comparison
Both the Doogee X97 and Tecno Spark Go 2023 likely feature similar LCD panels, given their price point. Without specific display specs like resolution or brightness, it’s safe to assume both offer a basic viewing experience suitable for everyday tasks. Expect limited color accuracy and narrow viewing angles. The absence of features like higher refresh rates or even full HD resolution means neither device is ideal for media consumption. Bezels are likely to be substantial on both models, maximizing screen real estate at the expense of a modern aesthetic.
Camera Comparison
Camera performance on both devices will be limited. While both may include multiple rear cameras, the primary sensor is the only one likely to deliver usable results. The context data doesn’t specify sensor sizes or apertures, but it’s reasonable to expect low-resolution sensors with limited dynamic range. Any secondary cameras (often 2MP macro or depth sensors) are largely marketing features and offer minimal practical benefit. Image processing will be basic, resulting in soft images with limited detail, especially in low-light conditions.
Performance
The core of both devices is the Mediatek MT6761 Helio A22, a quad-core processor clocked at 2.0 GHz. This chipset is designed for entry-level tasks and will struggle with demanding applications or multitasking. The Cortex-A53 cores are efficient but lack the power for smooth gaming beyond very basic titles. RAM configurations are not specified, but both will likely feature 2GB or 3GB, further limiting multitasking capabilities. Thermal management shouldn’t be a concern given the low power draw of the Helio A22; neither device is likely to experience significant throttling.
Battery Life
Battery capacity is not specified for either device, but both likely feature batteries in the 3000-4000 mAh range, typical for this price segment. The key difference lies in charging: the Tecno Spark Go 2023 supports 10W wired charging, while the Doogee X97’s charging speed is unknown but likely slower. This means the Tecno will offer a more convenient charging experience, reducing the time spent tethered to a power outlet. While neither device will offer all-day battery life with heavy usage, the 10W charging on the Tecno provides a tangible advantage.
Buying Guide
Buy the Doogee X97 if you prioritize a potentially lower initial cost and are comfortable with slower charging speeds. It's a viable option for users who primarily use their phone for calls, texts, and very light app usage. Buy the Tecno Spark Go 2023 if you value the convenience of even basic wired charging, and anticipate needing to top up your battery throughout the day. It’s a better choice for users who want a slightly more polished and user-friendly experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
❓ Will the Tecno Spark Go 2023's 10W charging significantly reduce charging time compared to the Doogee X97?
While neither phone will charge rapidly, 10W charging on the Tecno Spark Go 2023 will noticeably reduce charging time compared to a potentially slower, unspecified charging rate on the Doogee X97. Expect a more convenient top-up experience with the Tecno, especially for users who frequently need to recharge throughout the day.
❓ Can either the Doogee X97 or Tecno Spark Go 2023 handle popular mobile games like PUBG or Call of Duty?
Both the Doogee X97 and Tecno Spark Go 2023, powered by the Mediatek Helio A22, will struggle to run demanding games like PUBG or Call of Duty smoothly. You may be able to run them at the lowest settings with significant frame rate drops, but the experience will likely be frustrating. These phones are better suited for casual gaming or less graphically intensive titles.
❓ How much storage space is realistically usable on the Tecno Spark Go 2023 after accounting for the operating system and pre-installed apps?
While the exact storage configuration isn't specified, expect approximately 16GB of internal storage on the Tecno Spark Go 2023. After accounting for the Android operating system and pre-installed applications, realistically, you'll have around 8-10GB of usable storage space. A microSD card slot is highly recommended for expanding storage capacity.